EPPP Exam Update: Big Changes Ahead for Aspiring Psychologists

Greetings, fellow psychology enthusiasts! As you gear up for your journey towards licensure, it's crucial to stay informed about the latest developments in the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP). Buckle up, because we've got some significant news to unpack!

EPPP 2.0: The Two-Part Transformation

Remember the whispers about a revamped EPPP? Well, they're no longer whispers! The Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB) has officially announced the transition to a two-part EPPP, aptly named EPPP-2. This seismic shift is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, marking a new era in psychology licensure.

What does this mean for you?

• Ditch the Monolith: The familiar single exam is splitting into two distinct components: a computer-based knowledge assessment and a hands-on clinical skills assessment.
• Sharpen Your Clinical Edge: The skills assessment will delve deeper into your practical abilities, simulating real-world scenarios you'll encounter as a licensed psychologist.
• Phased Rollout: Don't fret if 2026 seems far away. The ASPPB is gradually implementing EPPP-2, with several jurisdictions adopting it as early as 2023.

Staying Ahead of the Curve

While EPPP-2 might seem daunting, it's an exciting opportunity to showcase your well-rounded psychological prowess. Here are some tips to navigate the changing landscape:

• Embrace the Two-Part Approach: Familiarize yourself with the format and content of both assessments. Practice tests and study materials specifically designed for EPPP-2 are already emerging.
• Sharpen Your Clinical Skills: Seek out clinical experiences and training opportunities that hone your practical abilities. Role-playing, case studies, and supervised practice can be invaluable assets.
• Stay Informed: Keep your finger on the pulse of EPPP updates through the ASPPB website and reliable psychology news sources.

Remember, the EPPP-2 transition is an ongoing process. Embrace the changes, adapt your preparation strategies, and you'll be well on your way to acing the new exam and embarking on a fulfilling career in psychology!

Beyond the Big News

This blog post is just a springboard for further exploration. We encourage you to delve deeper into the specifics of EPPP-2, explore study resources, and connect with fellow psychology professionals to navigate this exciting transformation together.

Until next time, stay curious, stay informed, and best of luck on your EPPP journey!

P.S. Feel free to share your thoughts and questions about EPPP-2 in the comments below. Let's create a supportive community of future psychologists!

Will The Real EPPP Examination Please Stand Up

You may think there is only one Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) — but you'd be wrong! 

Raise your score in just a few hours — GUARANTEED

There are actually four different versions of the examination. When you sit for the examination you won't know which version you received. It's true; some versions are more difficult than others. To ensure fairness, the scoring of the exams is adjusted by the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards to give equivalent scores, no matter which of the four different EPPP examinations you actually receive. 

Although the scores are adjusted you may wonder if individual differences affect the final score. For example, if you are weak in statistics and you receive a test that happens to have difficult statistics questions it seems likely you would score lower than you would have otherwise. On the other hand, if you are strong in statistics, you would likely receive a higher score than you would have if you received a version with statistics questions that counted for fewer points. The ASPPB would have us believe that their adjustments for item difficulty prevent this problem. I agree that it will — if you are exactly average. Are you? 

Raise your score. Proven system. 625 + flashcards. Guaranteed.

So, what can you do if you receive an examination with questions in a content area that you are weak in? One defense is to study all content areas until you are competent in each of them. Another option is to retake the EPPP examination and hope that this time fate hands you a version with highly scored questions in a content area you are strong in. 

Free EPPP Practice Exams

We invite you to use our free EPPP Practice Examinations. Practice tests are one of the best ways to prepare for the real Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) – whichever version you receive on the day you test. 

How COVID Affects the EPPP Examination at Pearson VUE Test Centers

What You Need to Know About COVID-19 Before Your Pearson VUE EPPP Test Date

You need to know the answers to these questions before you sit for the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) during the coronavirus pandemic. 

COVID and the EPPP Test at Pearson VUE 

• Are the Pearson VUE test centers open during the coronavirus pandemic?
• Is Pearson VUE allowing in-person testing?
• Could my EPPP examination be canceled?
• Will I be charged if I cancel or reschedule my EPPP exam? 

Pearson VUE Test Center Closings, Virtual Testing, Cancellations, Charges

There are limited openings for exam appointments because some Pearson VUE Test Centers have closed. Open centers have less capacity due to social distancing precautions. Centers are struggling with issues of government-regulated precautions, staff availability, and adequate cleaning and disinfecting supplies. Some states have mandated nonessential business close. You may be able to travel to another state or country to sit for the EPPP if you meet the requirements for that state or country's travel restrictions. 

Some Pearson Centers have extended their hours as much as 24 hours to serve examinees. You can find open Pearson Test Centers in your Pearson online account. 

Your appointment may be randomly canceled if additional space is needed for social distancing at a Test Center. You will be notified via email if this happens. Your exam fee will be refunded. You can reschedule using your Certemy account. ASPPB has waived the 90-day rescheduling window. All cancellation and rescheduling fees have been waived by ASPPB. Importantly, if you cancel you must do so within 24 hours of your scheduled start time or you will lose your exam fees. 

Coronavirus Safety Precautions Required of Examinees

• What types of protective gear are allowed at the test center?
• Am I required to wear a mask at Pearson VUE test centers?
• Can I appeal Pearson VUE's coronavirus rules to the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB)?
• What kinds of masks are acceptable? 
• Can I request an exception to wearing a mask?

You must wear a face mask to protect yourself and others from the coronavirus at the Pearson VUE Test Center. The mask can be a surgical, cloth, or homemade mask. Your nose and mouth must be covered. You may not use a mask with a valve nor a face shield. You must bring your own mask. A temperature check may be required when you arrive at the examination center. If you do not abide by these COVID precautions you will be denied testing services. You may wear protective gloves if you like. 

ASPPB has officially stated: 

⚠ Please note: face masks are now required at Pearson VUE testing centers

ASPPB will NOT override this requirement

 

Exposure To COVID-19

• What if I have coronavirus?
• What if I only have symptoms of COVID-19?
• What if I have had contact with someone who has suspected or confirmed COVID-19?

What EPPP candidates need to know

According to Pearson VUE, test candidates will not be admitted to the test center and should reschedule their exam if:

1. They have tested positive for COVID-19. 

Unless, they have been symptom-free and fever-free for at least 72 hours without the use of fever-reducing medicine and at least 14 days have passed since their diagnosis or they have received two negative COVID-19 test results in a row, 24 hours apart.

2. They are currently experiencing or have experienced one or more associated symptoms within the last fourteen (14) days:

• shortness of breath
• cough
• fever
• chills
• sore throat
• loss of smell

Unless they have been symptom-free and fever-free for at least 72 hours without the use of fever-reducing medicine.

3. They live with or have had close contact with someone who has confirmed or suspected COVID-19.*

Unless at least 14 days have passed since their last exposure.

4. Have been or are under home quarantine or centralized observation by government or healthcare authorities

Unless at least 14 days have passed since the start of their quarantine or centralized observation has been lifted by the government or healthcare authorities.

*Medical and healthcare professionals where both the medical/healthcare professional and the patient were wearing the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) are an exception.

References

Pearson | VUE: Testing for Essential Services: FAQs, https://home.pearsonvue.com/essential-services-faqs, recovered 5/15/2021.

Pearson | VUE: Important test delivery information pertaining to COVID-19 (coronavirus), https://home.pearsonvue.com/coronavirus-update.aspx#face-masks, recovered 5/15/2021.

ASPPB: COVID-19, EPPP Update, https://www.asppb.net/page/pearsonCOVID19updates, recovered 5/15/2021.

Submit A Question To Receive Free EPPP Practice Examinations

Complete this form to submit an EPPP practice question to receive free EPPP practice examinations. 

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How To Stay Sane In An Insane World When You're Unemployed And Studying For The EPPP Exam

How do you stay sane in an insane world when you are unemployed and studying for the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology? The answer is simple really. It's the same way I recommend you stay sane in your everyday life. You cannot hope to be your best self and calmly focus on studying when you are distracted by other thoughts or feeling anxious. There is a simple way to learn how to focus your mind and attention and to calm your emotions. It is proven by thousands of years of use by millions of people. In a word—Meditation.

I use Headspace every day and every night. It's a beautifully designed app with cute animations that make learning meditation fun and enjoyable. It has many different minicourses within it to follow along on topics such as learning to fall and stay asleep easily, maintaining focus, and reducing stress and anxiety. In the morning you can watch a brief video called The Wake Up to start your day on a positive note. They even have a section to train your body and your mind at the same time with exercises to strengthen your mental and physical well-being. My very favorite feature is Sleepcasts. These short soothing stories with relaxing sound effects help me drift off to sleepy land with a smile on my face. 

Now, thanks to the generosity of my favorite meditation app you can learn how to meditate for free if you are currently unemployed. Normally this app costs around $70 annually. I do not receive any compensation for recommending Headspace–I just saw their free offer and was so blown away by their generosity that I wanted to share it with you to make your studying, and maybe your life, just a little easier. I hope you take advantage of their offer because you have nothing to lose but your stress. Enjoy!

Did you try Headspace? Did you enjoy it? Let us know in the comments below!

Study Video Of EPPP Examination Test Questions

Watch this video of EPPP examination study questions. Each question is presented on the screen for about 10 seconds to give you time to select one of the multiple choice answers. The correct answer is then shown.

Would you like more study questions like these? If you like the convenience of flashcard studying, the EPPP Flashcard Study System is an excellent resource for reviewing for the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology. If you prefer reading a book then the EPPP Secrets Study Guide is just what you need.

[Full Disclosure: As an affiliate, I receive compensation if you purchase materials through the links on this site.]

Examination For The Professional Practice Of Psychology Discussion Forum Group

Examination For The Professional Practice Of Psychology
Discussion Forum 

Attention all undergraduate students, graduate students, interns, fellows, psychologists, and people considering a career in psychology. This is the place to discuss everything you ever wanted to know about the EPPP exam. Let's help each other by sharing information about this test for psychology professionals. Post your questions, answers, and comments below. 

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